Harvard University scientist Ali Ahmad has linked an increase in the number of accidents at nuclear power plants to global warming. With its conclusions, shared in the journal Nature Energy.

The researcher analyzed whether the climate change of the last three decades is one of the reasons for the increase in the frequency of accidents at nuclear power plants. As a result, global warming turned out to be dangerous for businesses. According to Ahmad’s calculations, the frequency of failures in the operation of the facilities has increased from 0.2 accidents per reactor per year to 1.5 in the last decade.

Ahmad only took into account accidents caused by global warming and did not take into account interruptions due to natural disasters, including earthquakes or tsunamis. According to scientists’ estimates, the average loss of electricity generated by all nuclear power plants in the world due to global warming will be 0.8 to 1.4 percent in the medium term (2046-2065) and 1.4 percent in the medium term (2046-2065). 2.4 percent long-term (2081-2100) periods.

Numerous experts are debating the link between climate change and the operation of nuclear power plants. Some see the development of nuclear energy as one of the means to combat global warming. However, unlike other types of power plants, nuclear power plants require much more serious safety requirements. After accidents, they take much longer to resume work due to the need for tests and controls. Researchers urge to analyze all risks before betting on nuclear power plants.

Formerly the UN warnedthat in the next decade the number of environmental disasters in the world may increase due to global warming by 1.5 degrees. A similar value was forecast for the period from 2030 to 2052. Among the possible negative consequences, the scientists named abnormal heat, forest fires, floods and increased mortality.